Economic Impact of Influenza Vaccination in Preschool Children

OBJECTIVE: The economic impact of routine vaccination of preschool children with inactivated influenza vaccine was investigated. DESIGN: A decision analysis was performed using data from the literature. Direct and indirect costs of each vaccination strategy were calculated and compared with a strategy of not vaccinating. SETTING: Two settings were evaluated: a setting in which vaccination was available during flexible hours and a setting in which vaccination was available only during usual work hours (8:00 am-5:00 pm). RESULTS: Vaccination resulted in a net cost savings in both settings. The net savings per vaccine recipient were $21.28 in the flexible setting and $1.20 in the restricted setting. Although the analysis was performed for the inactivated vaccine, sensitivity analysis showed that the nasal vaccine could also result in a net cost savings depending on the price of the cold-adapted vaccine when it is licensed. CONCLUSION: Vaccinating preschool children is economically advantageous. Serious consideration should be given to recommending vaccination in this age group.